OWNER of popular Trowbridge cafe The Lunch Box is on the hunt for new premises after learning that the landlord of the property tucked away in Pitman Mews will not be renewing the lease.

Jane Kelly has run the cafe for 17 years and said it is hugely popular among elderly residents, especially those in Raleigh Court, as it is easily accessible for anyone with walking difficulties and close to the town centre.

She said her lease for the property ends on August 31 and more than 200 people have signed a petition to save The Lunch Box.

Mrs Kelly, whose husband Trevor ran the cafe three years before her, said: “The Lunch Box has been here for well over 20 years and I have run it for 17. It is almost like a small community.

“Most of my customers are older, with some living in Raleigh Court, and they like being able to come here for some home cooked food. It’s such a unique place and it means so much to so many people.

“I don’t make lots of money out of this, but it’s something I love doing. I know most of my customers so well that I know when they are coming in, where they sit and what they are going to eat. It is upsetting to think that it could be no more.

“It’s tucked out of the way and it is perfect for those with buggies to leave them outside. I haven’t given up and I’m looking for somewhere else we can go, but I’m running out of time.”

Paula Barnes, who is a carer for 71-year-old Nicholas Powell-Martin, said: “He comes almost every day as his mobility is not great, but The Lunch Box is easily accessible as it’s all on one level.

“The staff go the extra mile for everyone and it is like one big family. Everyone knows everyone else and if someone doesn’t turn up for a few days people start to get worried.”

Janet Robertson, 76, who is also a regular, said: “I have come pretty much every day since Jane has been here as I know I can leave my scooter without a worry. I can’t understand why this is happening.

“The place is like a home from home and the food is always excellent. I have met lots of friends since coming here and you can always have a laugh and a joke with the staff.”

Michael Amey added: “I have been coming here over 10 years and there is nowhere else in town quite like it. It is used by a lot of elderly and disabled people and it’s a very worrying situation.”

Landlord Robin Oakley said he sympathised but wanted to turn the premises into a bungalow for his own use.